Press releases

Belarus is an observer state with the SCO. The event took place to mark the 25^th anniversary of the Belarusian-Chinese diplomatic relations. SCO Secretary General Rashid Alimov said at the Culture Day opening ceremony that Belarus is a country with a rich history and culture, with the Belarusian people cherishing and developing national traditions, being inspired by the best achievements of world civilization.

Belarus was the first observer state to hold its Culture Day in the SCO headquarters. Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Belarus to China Kirill Rudy stressed: “We are grateful for the opportunity to hold Belarus’ Culture Day in the headquarters of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization at the presence of the “Shanghai family” representatives. We also use this opportunity to take stock of the 2016 Year of Culture in Belarus and kick-start SCO cultural events in 2017. The event celebrates the 25^th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Belarus and China.”

The Ambassador donated a book about Belarus, signed by Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko, to the SCO headquarters library. The diplomat also presented a painting of young Belarusian artist Anton Vyrvo, May Thunderstorms, which will make part of the SCO Secretariat collection.

Belarus’ Culture Day will feature Kupalinka folk band, an exhibition of the National History Museum Belarus and Belarusians, and an exposition of Marina Elyashevich’s artworks.

Attending the opening ceremony were representatives of the diplomatic corps, including ambassadors of Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan and other countries.